Michael Mayer Injury News & Updates

Mayer caught three of four targets for 22 yards in Thursday's 10-7 loss to the Broncos.

Mayer had more targets and catches than Brock Bowers, who caught one of three targets for 31 yards. Bowers had an 83 percent snap share compared to Mayer's mark of 62 percent. Given the underwhelming state of Vegas' wide receiver room, the Raiders will likely continue to keep both tight ends involved in the passing game. The team's next game is Nov. 17 at home against the Cowboys.

Mayer caught three of seven targets for 26 yards in Sunday's 30-29 overtime loss to the Jaguars.

Mayer's seven targets matched his previous season high, but fellow tight end Brock Bowers stole the spotlight Sunday, erupting for a 12-127-3 receiving line on 13 total looks from quarterback Geno Smith. Nonetheless, Mayer played 83 percent of the Raiders' offensive snaps, as the team remains without a legitimate WR3 threat behind Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker.

Mayer brought in one of two targets for 10 yards in the Raiders' 31-0 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday.

Mayer drew a second consecutive start in place of Brock Bowers (knee), but his numbers paled in comparison to the 5-50-1 line on seven targets he'd generated against the Titans in his first turn with the first unit. Mayer's run as the top tight end may have come to an end Sunday, considering Bowers is expected to be healthy enough to play in a Week 9 home matchup against the Jaguars on Sunday, Nov. 2 following a Week 8 bye.

Mayer is expected to remain a focal point of the Las Vegas passing attack Sunday against the Chiefs with top tight end Brock Bowers (knee) and top receiver Jakobi Meyers (knee/toe) inactive for the contest, Levi Edwards of the Raiders' official site reports.

Bowers is missing his third straight game, but Mayer will be stepping in as the No. 1 tight end for just the second consecutive contest, after the Notre Dame product had previously sat out losses to the Bears in Week 4 and the Colts in Week 5 due to a concussion. In his return to action for this past Sunday's 20-10 win over the Titans, Mayer played 56 of 61 snaps on offense on his way to amassing a 5-50-1 receiving line on seven targets. The Raiders had Meyers available for that contest, but his absence for Week 7 along with Bowers' could free up even more volume for Mayer. The 24-year-old thus projects as a solid lineup option this week for fantasy managers looking for a Bowers replacement or otherwise in need of an alternative at the position.

Mayer had five receptions on seven targets for 50 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-10 win over the Titans.

Mayer returned from a two-game layoff to find himself as the Raiders' starting tight end sans Brock Bowers (knee). The veteran backup took full advantage of the opportunity, scoring his first touchdown of the season and rewarding savvy managers who scooped him up for Week 6. It is currently unclear if Bowers will be available for next Sunday's tilt against the Chiefs. If the starter's knee keeps him on the sidelines, then Mayer would retain his elevated streaming appeal in Week 7.

Mayer doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Titans, while Brock Bowers (knee) has been ruled out, Ryan McFadden of ESPN.com reports.

Mayer missed the Raiders' previous two games due to a concussion but cleared concussion protocol earlier in the week and subsequently logged three full practices during Week 6 prep. Mayer's expected to play a significant role in Vegas' passing offense in Bowers' absence.

Raiders coach Pete Carroll said Wednesday that Mayer has cleared the concussion protocol and is on track to practice in full, Ryan McFadden of ESPN.com reports.

Mayer has missed back-to-back games but now appears on track to return for Sunday's matchup against the Titans, while starting tight end Brock Bowers (knee) is considered week-to-week and could be rested in advance of the Raiders' upcoming bye in Week 7. With that context, Mayer could be positioned for a start at home against Tennessee, while Ian Thomas and Carter Runyon handle reserve reps at the position.

Mayer (concussion) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Colts.

Though Mayer was a limited participant in practice throughout the week, he wasn't able to make enough progress in his recovery from the brain injury to clear the NFL's five-step concussion protocol. Mayer typically serves as the Raiders' No. 2 tight end when he's available, but his absence will loom larger in Week 5 since starter Brock Bowers (knee) is inactive for the first time in his career. With Bowers and Mayer in street clothes, the Raiders are left with Ian Thomas, Carter Runyon and practice-squad call-up Albert Okwuegbunam as their available options in the position group.

Mayer (concussion) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Colts, Ryan McFadden of ESPN.com reports.

The Raiders are listing their top two tight ends as questionable for the contest, as Brock Bowers (knee) is also taking a designation into Sunday after managing just one limited practice this week. Mayer, meanwhile, was a limited participant throughout the week, but if he can clear the five-step concussion protocol ahead of Sunday's contest, he could be in line for a prominent role in the event that Bowers sits. If both Bowers and Mayer end up sitting out, however, the Raiders would be left with Ian Thomas and Carter Runyon as their healthy options at the position.

Mayer (concussion) was a limited participant at practice Thursday, Anthony Galaviz of The Fresno Bee reports.

Mayer has been slowly working his way back from a concussion he suffered in Week 3 versus the Commanders. He has now logged back-to-back limited efforts to begin the week, potentially opening the door for him to clear concussion protocol and play Sunday in Indianapolis.

Mayer (concussion) was limited in Wednesday's practice, Paul reports.

Mayer remains in the league's concussion protocol after he was injured in Week 3. The third-year tight end missed last Sunday's loss to the Bears. Mayer has six catches for 47 scoreless yards this season.

Mayer (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Bears, Paul Gutierrez of Raiders.com reports.

Mayer didn't practice this week, so his next chance to see game action will arrive Oct. 5 against the Colts. In his absence, fellow TE Ian Thomas is in line to serve as Brock Bowers' top backup Sunday, with Albert Okwuegbunam and Carter Runyon representing possible Week 4 practice squad elevations.

Mayer (concussion) didn't practice Thursday, Paul Gutierrez of the Raiders' official site reports.

Mayer exited Las Vegas' Week 3 loss at Washington in the first half and eventually was ruled out due to a concussion. Considering he has yet to practice this week, he's trending in the wrong direction ahead of Sunday's game against the Bears. Friday's injury report ultimately may provide a ruling on Mayer's status for Week 4 action.

Mayer (concussion) is not participating in Wednesday's practice, Ryan McFadden of ESPN.com reports.

Mayer is in the concussion protocol after having been forced out of Las Vegas' loss to the Commanders in Week 3 early, and he hasn't yet progressed to the stage that would allow him limited on-field work at practice. If he's unable to gain full clearance ahead of Sunday's game against the Bears, Ian Thomas will get a chance to work as the No. 2 tight end behind Brock Bowers.

Mayer (concussion) won't return to Sunday's game against the Commanders.

Upon his exit from the contest, Mayer was reported by the team as being evaluated for a head injury and questionable to return. Now that it's been confirmed that the tight end sustained a concussion, he'll need to advance through the NFL's concussion protocol in order to have a chance to suit up next Sunday against the Bears.

Mayer exited Sunday's game against the Commanders to be evaluated for a head injury.

Prior to his departure, Mayer did not catch his only target in the contest. In his absence, Ian Thomas is available to back up top TE Brock Bowers.

Mayer has two receptions on as many targets for nine yards in Monday's 20-9 loss to the Chargers.

Mayer was likely swooped up by concerned Brock Bowers (knee) managers this weekend after the star tight end was in jeopardy of missing Monday's contest. The latter wound up suiting up and playing his regular allotment of snaps, limiting Mayer to his usual backup role and marginal production. With Bowers finishing Monday's contest without issue, Mayer will return to fantasy irrelevance in Week 3.

Mayer secured all four targets for 38 yards in the Raiders' 20-13 win over the Patriots on Sunday.

Mayer enjoyed a slightly bigger role than expected in the second half following Brock Bowers' exit with a knee injury. Bowers ultimately downplayed the issue after the game and said he was pushing to get back into the game, so Mayer, who entered the day as the clear-cut No. 2 pass-catching option at tight end, will revert to that role in a Week 2 home matchup against the Chargers on Monday night, Sept. 15.

Mayer has been a standout of the early portion of Las Vegas' training camp, Ryan McFadden of ESPN reports.

Mayer's room for growth and involvement in the Raiders' offense are severely capped due to the presence of second-year standout Brock Bowers, whom McFadden also notes has displayed one of the most dynamic connections with new quarterback Geno Smith of all Las Vegas' offensive personnel. That said, Mayer himself said earlier this offseason that he expects to have a significant role in offensive coordinator Chip Kelly's system, per Michael Canelo of SI, and there's room for the team to increase its usage of two-TE sets. The Raiders were also reportedly shopping Mayer as a trade candidate early in the offseason, and if the 2023 second-round pick is able to flash during preseason action, beginning Thursday night at Seattle, he could reignite such conversations around the league.

The Raiders are shopping Mayer on the trade market, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.

Following a decorated college career at Notre Dame, Mayer was selected No. 35 overall in the 2023 Draft by Las Vegas. He caught 27 passes for 304 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie, but the Raiders then used their first-rounder on Brock Bowers in 2024. Mayer appeared in just 11 games last season, and his playing time took a hit when he was available. He finished the season with 21 catches for 156 scoreless yards, and the Raiders appear to be willing to move him after just two years.

Mayer caught all four of his targets for 21 yards in Sunday's 34-20 loss to the Chargers, ultimately capping the 2024 season with 21 receptions for 156 yards on 32 targets across 11 games.

Mayer appeared in the Raiders' final eight contests of the season after missing Weeks 4-9 due to personal reasons, and his return was highlighted by a seven-catch, 68-yard performance in Week 14 at Tampa Bay. The 2023 second rounder's fantasy ceiling remained limited by the emergence of fellow tight end Brock Bowers, who set multiple rookie records en route to a 112-1,194-5 receiving line on 153 targets in 17 games. Mayer has two years remaining with the Raiders on his own rookie contract, but given Bowers' dominance and the fact that Las Vegas' current regime didn't draft Mayer, the Notre Dame product could be a valuable trade candidate this offseason.

Mayer caught one of two targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 25-10 win over the Saints.

Mayer logged 75 percent of the Raiders' offensive snaps, but he managed to catch only one pass while rookie tight end Brock Bowers posted a 7-77-0 receiving line on seven targets, setting multiple season records in the process. Mayer's snap share figures to remain elevated against the Chargers in Las Vegas' finale, but playing time hasn't equated to receiving production for him over the past three weeks.

Mayer was unable to haul in his only target in Sunday's 19-14 win over the Jaguars.

After emerging with a seven-catch, 68-yard performance in Week 14, Mayer has since posted a disappointing 1-11-0 receiving line on three targets over the Raiders' past two games. Rookie tight end Brock Bowers continued to shine Sunday, as he racked up 11 receptions for 99 yards on 13 targets. Expect Mayer to continue taking a backseat to Bowers at New Orleans in Week 17.

Mayer caught one of two targets for 11 yards in Monday's 15-9 loss to the Falcons.

Mayer didn't come close to repeating his Week 14 performance that included seven catches for 68 yards on nine targets in Tampa Bay, but he did reach a 70 percent offensive snap share on Monday Night Football as the Raiders continued to use plenty of two-TE sets. Rookie standout Brock Bowers remains the alpha at this position ahead of a Week 16 matchup against the Jaguars, but Mayer shouldn't yet be completely crossed off in deeper formats, especially with quarterback Aidan O'Connell (knee) possibly returning to the lineup.

Mayer secured seven of nine targets for 68 yards in the Raiders' 28-13 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Mayer was the surprise co-leader in receptions and set the pace in receiving yards for the Raiders on the afternoon, looking more like Brock Bowers than the star tight end himself. Mayer's catch total was also a career-high figure, and the productive performance came out of nowhere considering the second-year pro had topped out at two catches and 11 yards in terms of single-game highs this season prior to Sunday. Mayer draws another favorable matchup in a Week 15 home clash against the Falcons on Monday night, Dec. 16.

Mayer recorded one reception on two targets for five yards in Friday's Week 13 loss to the Chiefs.

Mayer logged 62 percent of Las Vegas' offensive snaps -- his highest count since returning from a a six-game absence Week 11 -- but wasn't able to do much in the close contest. He's caught just four passes for 21 yards over three contests since returning from the hiatus, so he's not on the fantasy radar as the Raiders' No. 2 tight end. Meanwhile, rookie Brock Bowers has gone over 125 receiving yards in two of his past three games, further cementing his already tight grasp on his role as the team's most dangerous pass catcher.

Mayer caught two passes on as many targets for 11 yards in Sunday's 29-19 loss to the Broncos.

In his second game back from a six-week absence, Mayer played 34 of a possible 77 offensive snaps behind fellow tight end Brock Bowers, who saw double-digit targets for a second straight contest. Mayer continues to serve as the No. 2 TE behind the standout rookie in an offense that will have a new signal caller at the helm in Week 13 against the Chiefs after Gardner Minshew fractured his collarbone during Sunday's loss.

Mayer caught one of three targets for five yards in Sunday's 34-19 loss to the Dolphins.

Mayer suited up for the first time since Week 3 after being reinstated from the reserve/non-football illness list Saturday, posting a 52 percent offensive snap share. His return didn't have an impact on Brock Bowers, who continued his breakout rookie campaign with 13 receptions for 126 yards and a touchdown on 16 looks from Gardner Minshew. Expect Mayer to provide depth behind Bowers when Las Vegas hosts the Broncos in Week 12.

Mayer (personal) is active for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

Mayer had been listed as questionable heading into the weekend, but after practicing fully Wednesday through Friday and then being reinstated from the reserve/non-football illness list Saturday, his availability for Sunday's contest never appeared to be in much jeopardy. He'll be suiting up for the first time since Week 3, after having missed the Raiders' last six games prior to the team's Week 10 bye while tending to a personal matter. With fellow tight end Harrison Bryant (ankle) sitting out Sunday, look for Mayer to serve as the clear No. 2 option behind standout rookie Brock Bowers. Over his first three appearances of 2024, Mayer's snap shares ranged between 49 and 63 percent, with the 23-year-old producing a 4-21-0 receiving line on seven targets.

Mayer (personal) was activated from the reserve/non-football illness list Saturday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. He still remains questionable for Sunday's contest against the Dolphins.

Brock Bowers has been one of the Raiders' few revelations this season, so even if Mayer does end up playing Sunday, it's hard to imagine the second-year tight end cutting into Bowers' pass-catching opportunities significantly.

Mayer (personal) is listed as questionable for Sunday's contest at Miami.

The Raiders designated Mayer for return from the reserve/non-football illness list Tuesday, and he was listed as a full participant on all three Week 11 injury reports. The team will need to activate him by 4:00 p.m. ET on Saturday for him to have a chance to be active Sunday. If that comes to pass, Mayer's status will be confirmed, one way or another, about 90 minutes before a 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff. He's seeking his first game action since Week 3 while he tended to a personal matter in the meantime.

The Raiders designated Mayer (personal) for return from the reserve/non-football illness list Tuesday.

Mayer didn't appear in any of Las Vegas' last six games while he was away from the team tending to a personal matter, but he's ready to resume practicing coming out of the team's Week 10 bye. Though he's not returning from an injury, Mayer could need some time to get himself back in football shape following the lengthy layoff, so he may not be a lock to suit up in Sunday's game against the Dolphins. Whenever he's cleared for game action, Mayer reprise his duties as the Raiders' No. 2 tight end, though he'll often share the field with standout rookie Brock Bowers.

Raiders coach Antonio Pierce said Monday that he thinks Mayer (personal) is "getting close" to a return, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.

Mayer has been away from the team since late September and was placed on the non-football-illness list Oct. 11. He's eligible to return for Week 11, after a Week 10 bye, but it isn't yet clear if that will happen even with Pierce's recent optimism.

The Raiders placed Mayer (personal) on the reserve/non-football illness Friday.

Mayer has been away from the team since at least Sept. 26 as he tends to a personal matter, which has sidelined him the last two games and will keep him out through the Raiders' Week 10 bye. He'll be first eligible to get back on the active roster Sunday, Nov. 17 at Miami, but in the meantime, Harrison Bryant and John Samuel Shenker will handle the TE reps that don't go to rookie sensation Brock Bowers.

Mayer (personal) remains away from the Raiders, Vic Tafur of The Athletic reports.

Mayer missed the past two games and appears in danger of missing another this Sunday against the Steelers. Harrison Bryant has taken on a lot more playing time in Mayer's absence, while Brock Bowers is still dominating the TE targets but hasn't gotten much of a playing-time boost.

Mayer (personal) has been ruled out for Sunday's game at Denver, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.

Mayer has been away from the Raiders since last Thursday as he tends to a personal matter, and he'll miss a second consecutive contest as a result this weekend. With Mayer out this past Sunday against the Browns, rookie first-rounder Brock Bowers paced the team's tight ends with an 81 percent snap share on his way to three touches (two catches, one carry) for 31 yards from scrimmage, while Harrison Bryant earned 76 percent of snaps and caught both of his targets for 21 yards. Mayer's next chance to play is Sunday, Oct. 13 against the Steelers.

Mayer (personal) isn't participating in Thursday's practice, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.

Mayer hasn't practiced since last Wednesday and remains away from the team while he tends to a personal matter. Unless he rejoins the Raiders and takes part in on-field work Friday, he'll likely be ruled out ahead of Sunday's game in Denver. Another absence would pave the way for Mayer to serve as the Raiders' No. 2 tight end behind Brock Bowers.

Mayer (personal) remains away from the Raiders and doesn't have a timeline to return, Levi Edwards of the Raiders' official site reports.

Mayer was added to the injury report last Thursday and ended up missing Sunday's win over the Browns. Harrison Bryant took over most of Mayer's snaps, with rookie tight end Brock Bowers essentially handling the same role he had Weeks 1-3. That'll likely be the plan again if Mayer isn't back with the team before Sunday's game in Denver.

Mayer (personal) won't play in Sunday's game against the Browns, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.

Mayer showed up on the Raiders' injury report Thursday as a non-participant due to personal matter, which now won't allow him to suit up Week 4. Brock Bowers is the clear-cut top tight end for Las Vegas, but Harrison Bryant and practice-squad members Justin Shorter and John Samuel Shenker will be candidates to fill in behind the rookie first-rounder in place of Mayer.

Mayer caught one pass for seven yards on three targets in Sunday's 36-22 loss to the Panthers.

Mayer's overall route participation was limited as the Raiders found themselves facing a significant deficit for much of the contest, therefore using plenty of 11 personnel with each of Davante Adams, Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker logging an offensive snap share greater than 80 percent while tight end Brock Bowers secured three of four targets for 41 yards of his own. Mayer has posted a meager 4-21-0 receiving line on seven total targets through the first three weeks of the season.

Mayer caught his only target for 11 yards in Sunday's 26-23 win over the Ravens.

Mayer once again logged nearly as many offensive snaps (39) as fellow tight end Brock Bowers (43), but the first-round rookie erupted for nine catches on as many targets for 98 yards while Mayer was held to just the one reception. With the Raiders struggling to get much going on the ground through the first two weeks of the season, Mayer could be tasked with additional blocking duties while Bowers enjoys a more fantasy-friendly route tree, especially if the team manages to build a lead against the Panthers in Week 3.

Mayer caught two of three targets for three yards in Sunday's 22-10 loss to the Chargers.

Mayer averaged just one yard per target in the Raiders' season opener, while rookie tight end Brock Bowers paced the team in receptions with six grabs for 58 yards on eight looks from quarterback Gardner Minshew. Despite being the No. 2 TE option in Las Vegas, Mayer played only seven fewer snaps than Bowers' 41, but the former's fantasy output could remain touchdown dependent, whereas Bowers can clearly get there on volume if he's already earning eight targets in his NFL debut.

Mayer caught three of his four targets for 16 yards in Saturday's 27-12 preseason loss to the Cowboys.

As a rookie, Mayer -- who the Raiders took in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft -- recorded a 27/304/2 receiving line (on 40 targets) in 14 regular-season games. Following his initial campaign as a pro, it looked like the Notre Dame product would be in a position to see a significant uptick in volume in Year 2, however when the Raiders selected fellow tight end Brock Bowers 13th overall this April, that scenario became far less likely. That said, while playing alongside Bowers hampers Mayer's weekly fantasy upside, he could still merit attention in TE-friendly formats, with Paul Gutierrez of ESPN noting that Las Vegas' Gardner Minshew-helmed offense figures to feature a lot of multiple tight end sets.

GM Tom Telesco said Thursday that he excepts Mayer to "take a leap this year" even though the Raiders drafted fellow tight end Brock Bowers at No. 13 overall, Nick Walters of KTNV Las Vegas reports.

The Raiders presumably plan to use a lot of multi-TE formations, but the new competition for snaps and targets is nonetheless terrible news for Mayer's fantasy value. He and Bowers were arguably the most productive tight ends in college football over the past half-decade, with Mayer recording 2,099 yards and 18 TDs in three seasons at Notre Dame and Bowers putting up 2,538 and 26 over three seasons for Georgia. While Mayer is both taller and heavier, Bowers is faster, more agile and an earlier draft pick (Mayer went 35th in 2023). On the bright side, Telesco said there's "no concern" about the foot injury that brought Mayer's rookie season to an early end after 14 games (12 starts) and a 27-304-2 receiving line, Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.com reports.

Mayer (toe) was placed on injured reserve Saturday.

Mayer had already been ruled out prior, but the Raiders wanted to open up a roster spot for the final week of the regular season. The rookie tight end was widely lauded as a sure-fire starter in the league, but he ended up splitting time frequently with Austin Hooper the entire campaign. The 22-year-old likely still projects as a clear-cut starter in future seasons, but it's certainly been a frustrating season for fantasy managers who expected Mayer to flash to the same extent as fellow rookies Sam LaPorta, Dalton Kincaid and Luke Musgrave.

Mayer (toe) has been ruled out for Sunday's season finale against the Broncos, Anthony Galaviz of The Fresno Bee reports.

Mayer's rookie season will end with three consecutive absences. Austin Hooper should continue to fill in as Vegas' top tight end against a Denver defense that has struggled to defend the position. Mayer finishes his first NFL campaign with 27 catches on 40 targets for 304 yards and two touchdowns.

Mayer (toe) was a non-participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report.

The second-round rookie has missed the Raiders' last two games, and his practice week is off on the wrong foot. With Mayer out last week, Austin Hooper played 85 percent of the offensive snaps, catching three passes for 28 yards on three targets against the Colts.

Mayer (toe) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Colts, Rachel Gossen of the Raiders' official site reports.

This news isn't surprising considering coach Antonio Pierce said earlier Friday that he didn't expect Mayer to be available. The rookie tight end will miss a second consecutive game, leaving Austin Hooper and Zach Gentry as the team's only available options at the position. Mayer will have one more chance to suit up Week 18 against the Broncos before the conclusion of his first NFL campaign.

Coach Antonio Pierce said Friday that Mayer (toe) will more than likely remain out Sunday against the Colts, Vic Tafur of The Athletic reports.

Mayer missed Monday's win over Kansas City due to a toe injury and hasn't been able to participate in practice leading up to Sunday's game in Indianapolis. The rookie tight end's status won't be confirmed until Friday's injury report, but it looks like Austin Hooper and Zach Gentry will be Vegas' only healthy tight ends against the Colts.

Mayer (toe) was listed as a non-participant for Thursday's walk-through practice.

The Raiders have held walkthroughs for the first two Week 17 practice sessions, and Mayer has been estimated as a non-participant on both occasions. He'll have an opportunity Friday to get in some on-field work, but another absence would put him on track to miss a second straight game Sunday at Indianapolis. If Mayer is sidelined, Austin Hooper would likely be in store for a three-down role as the Raiders' starting tight end.

The Raiders listed Mayer (toe) as a non-participant on their practice report estimate Wednesday.

The team merely held a walkthrough Wednesday after upsetting the Chiefs two days earlier. Austin Hooper took on a three-down role in the contest with both Mayer and Jesper Horsted (hamstring) inactive, catching two of three targets for 13 yards on 89 percent of snaps. That's not unlike the stat lines Mayer has posted of late, with large snap shares rarely leading to considerable receiving production. The rookie is in danger of missing a second straight game when the Raiders play in Indianapolis this Sunday.

Mayer (toe) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Chiefs.

Mayer was unable to practice in any capacity Thursday through Saturday and will miss a game for the first time in his career as a result. Austin Hooper is likely to handle the majority of snaps at tight end in the rookie second-round draft pick's absence, while Jesper Horsted could see additional opportunities as well. Mayer's next chance to suit up will be Week 17 against the Colts.

Mayer (toe) didn't practice Friday.

Mayer has been unavailable for each of Vegas' first two practices this week, but he'll have one more chance to practice Saturday before the Raiders release their Week 16 injury report for Monday's game against the Chiefs. The rookie tight end scored his second NFL touchdown in last Thursday's win over the Chargers, but alternatives will be limited for Mayer's fantasy managers if his status is still in doubt heading into Monday's game, though at least there are two additional games scheduled after the Raiders' 1 p.m. ET kickoff on Christmas.

Mayer (toe) didn't practice Thursday.

In the Raiders' 63-21 win over the Chargers on Dec. 14, Mayer caught four of his five targets for 39 yards and a TD, but now he's dealing with a toe issue ahead of Monday night's game against the Chiefs. The 2023 second-rounder has two more chances to practice ahead of Week 16 action, but if he's out or limited versus Kansas City, Austin Hooper would be in line to see added tight end snaps.

Mayer brought in four of five targets for 39 yards and a touchdown in the Raiders' 63-21 win over the Chargers on Thursday night.

The rookie tight end finished second in receptions and targets on the night, although well behind Davante Adams in both categories. Mayer rounded out his night with the second touchdown catch of his career, an 11-yard grab in the second quarter. Mayer heads into a Week 16 road showdown against the Chiefs on Christmas Day with a pair of four-reception tallies in the last four games.

Mayer caught one pass for 14 yards on two targets in Sunday's 3-0 loss to the Vikings.

Mayer played 51 of a possible 54 offensive snaps for the Raiders on Sunday, but the rookie tight end earned just two targets on 32 pass attempts from quarterback Aidan O'Connell. Nonetheless, Mayer remains the clear TE1 in Las Vegas ahead of a Thursday Night Football matchup against the Chargers in Week 15.

Mayer caught two of four targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 31-17 loss to Kansas City.

Mayer tied slot receiver Hunter Renfrow for third in team targets Sunday with each player recording four apiece. The rookie tight end has seen his role increase over the Raiders' last three games by averaging 4.7 targets while catching his first touchdown over that span. Mayer will look to continue developing in a starting role when Las Vegas returns from its bye to face the Vikings on Dec. 10.

Mayer secured four of five targets for 46 yards in the Raiders' 20-13 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.

The rookie tight end teamed up with first-year teammate Aidan O'Connell to tie for third in receptions and targets while posting his second-highest catch and yardage tallies of his young career. Mayer has multiple receptions in all three games of O'Connell's current starting stint, and he could fill a solid role again in a Week 12 home matchup against a Chiefs defense that has done a very good job of limiting wide receiver production.

Mayer caught three of five targets for 19 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 16-12 win over the Jets.

Mayer appeared to be having another quiet game while sitting at two catches for 12 yards to begin the fourth quarter. That was before the 22-year-old hauled in the game's lone touchdown on a short reception in the final period to secure victory for the Raiders. The second-round rookie still finished below 20 receiving yards for the fourth straight week despite scoring his first touchdown on the year. Mayer's first score could generate some looks from managers in deeper formats on waivers this week, but his current small role on offense coupled with the lingering presence of veteran backup Austin Hooper (1-7-0) limits the rookie's potential heading into next Sunday's tilt against Miami.

Mayer caught both of his targets for 11 yards in Sunday's 30-6 win over the Giants.

Josh Jacobs (26-98-2) and the Raiders' ground game were more than enough to make quick work of the reeling Giants, resulting in another low-usage game for Mayer. The rookie tight end continued to start over veteran Austin Hooper after the Raiders cleaned house this past week, but the latter's presence continues to eat into what little fantasy value Mayer has generated through nine weeks so far. Perhaps Las Vegas' new coaching staff will look to develop the 22-year-old with more targets in the second half of the season. Mayer's current role is simply too small to rely on as a starting option in fantasy for next Sunday's game against the Jets.

Mayer caught one of two targets for 19 yards in Monday's 26-14 loss to the Lions.

Mayer was one of four players that tied for second on the team in receiving yards behind Josh Jacobs' 27, as Jimmy Garoppolo (back) threw for only 126 yards in his return from a one-game absence. Fellow tight end Austin Hooper was among those four players, but Mayer has 133 receiving yards to Hooper's 49 in Garoppolo's last three starts. The rookie tight end let out some anger over Vegas' poor offensive performance with a huge hit on special teams, accounting for Mayer's first career tackle. Mayer and the rest of Vegas' passing game will look to get back on track in Week 9 against the Giants.

Mayer caught two passes for 13 yards on four targets in Sunday's 30-12 loss to the Bears.

Mayer once again played ahead of fellow tight end Austin Hooper as the rookie out-snapped the eighth-year veteran 46 to 22, but Mayer's 2-13-0 line disappointed while receivers Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers saw a combined 25 targets. Mayer will look to take better advantage of his recently expanded role against the Lions in Week 8.

Mayer brought in five of his six targets for 75 yards in Sunday's 21-17 win over the Patriots.

Mayer followed up his career high 39 receiving yards from Week 5 by nearly doubling that mark in the win over New England. Part of the rookie's increased usage came as a response to the opposition focusing on star wideout Davante Adams (2-29-0) on Sunday, which opened up room for Mayer to operate in the middle of the field. The 2023 second round pick has garnered nine targets over his last two games after totaling two through the first four games of the season. Mayer is still on the lower end of the fantasy tight end spectrum, but that could change with another productive outing against the Bears next Sunday.

Mayer had two receptions on three targets for 39 yards in Monday's 17-13 win over the Packers.

Mayer entered Monday's contest with just one catch for two yards on two targets across four games, so this was actually a significant step forward for the rookie as he adjusts to the pro level. Teammate Austin Hooper also had two catches in the win, but generated just 11 yards with his limited opportunities. Las Vegas' timeshare has nullified any marginal value either tight end would have created as traditional starters. Mayer will look to build off his two-catch game as the Raiders stay put to host the Patriots in Week 6.

Mayer was on the receiving end of a two-point conversion in Sunday's 23-18 loss to the Steelers, but he otherwise didn't record an official reception.

Mayer's only target resulted in quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo's (concussion) first of three interceptions, and the rookie was out-snapped 55 to 34 by fellow tight end Austin Hooper, who also was held without a catch. Mayer has hauled in just one pass for two yards through the first three games of his NFL career.

Mayer caught his only target for two yards in Sunday's 38-10 loss to the Bills.

Mayer's first NFL reception came on the final play of the first half Sunday, but he failed to earn another target throughout the remainder of the contest, while fellow tight end Austin Hooper caught two passes for 20 yards. The TE duo has yet to find the end zone through the Raiders' first two games, but red-zone looks could be available against the Steelers in Week 3 if Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers are unable to clear the league's concussion protocol.

Mayer was not targeted in Sunday's 17-16 win over the Broncos.

Mayer was on the field for 29 of the Raiders' 59 offensive snaps in his NFL debut, but he was held without a target on nine routes run, and he was called for a holding penalty on a Josh Jacobs carry in the third quarter. Fellow tight end Austin Hooper caught his only target for 20 yards, and the timeshare at the position figures to continue against the Bills in Week 2, limiting Mayer's fantasy appeal.

Mayer recorded two receptions on two targets for 20 yards in Saturday's 31-16 loss to the Cowboys.

Mayer participated in his second consecutive preseason contest and saw run into the early second quarter. He showed rapport with Aidan O'Connell on a 13-yard connection, his longest gain of the exhibition schedule. It's possible that Austin Hooper plays ahead of Mayer to start the regular season, but the rookie should have a significant role in the offense.

Mayer secured one of two targets for three yards in the Raiders' 34-17 preseason win over the Rams.

The rookie second-round pick was making his pro debut Saturday night after sitting out Las Vegas' preseason opener. Mayer has reportedly had a good training camp and will have a chance to ease into the rigors of the tight end position at the NFL level by playing alongside accomplished veteran Austin Hooper, a fellow offseason arrival.

Mayer isn't in uniform for Sunday's preseason opener against the 49ers, Tashan Reed of The Athletic reports.

A rookie second-round pick, Mayer has flashed during training camp and is line to take over as the Raiders' top tight end, a vacancy created by Darren Waller's move to the Giants this offseason. The Notre Dame product's next chance to make his professional debut will arrive next Saturday against the Rams.

Mayer "looked impressive" while making his fair share of catches during Monday's practice, according to Levi Edwards of the Raiders' official site.

Per Paul Gutierrez of ESPN, Mayer still needs to improve on his blocking, but the 2023 second-rounder's pass-catching ability figures to lead to a role in the Raiders' offense from the get-go this coming season. With the team having traded Darren Waller to the Giants in March, there are TE snaps and targets available for both Mayer and free-agent addition Austin Hooper. While a time-share figures to be in play early on, it's quite plausible that the rookie's fantasy utility increases as the campaign progresses.

The Raiders selected Mayer in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 35th overall.

Las Vegas dealt Darren Waller to the Giants this offseason, making tight end a need. The board set up well for them as only one tight end went in the first round, and the Raiders were able to get a player that many had ranked as the top prospect at this position. Mayer (6-4, 249) is a "complete" tight end in that he's an asset both as a blocker and as a receiver. The Notre Dame product carried the Irish passing game during his three years in South Bend, leading them in receptions each of those seasons and finishing with 180 career grabs. His combine performance was something of a disappointment, as his 4.7 speed was not ideal for a player under 250 pounds. Still, Mayer projects to be in the mix right away for not just run-blocking snaps, but targets as well.

The Raiders selected Mayer in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 35th overall.

Las Vegas dealt Darren Waller to the Giants this offseason, making tight end a need. The board set up well for them as only one tight end went in the first round, and the Raiders were able to get a player that many had ranked as the top prospect at this position. Mayer (6-4, 249) is a "complete" tight end in that he's an asset both as a blocker and as a receiver. The Notre Dame product carried the Irish passing game during his three years in South Bend, leading them in receptions each of those seasons and finishing with 180 career grabs. His combine performance was something of a disappointment, as his 4.7 speed was not ideal for a player under 250 pounds. Still, Mayer projects to be in the mix right away for not just run-blocking snaps, but targets as well.